Memory is a funny thing. Some items are easy to recall, while others seem to elude us or are at least difficult to find in the moment they are needed. What is the key to accessing information that we once learned and were able to use? The key it seems is actually relatively simple. It depends on how often we use the information or skill. It is a matter of keeping the pathways of memory open.  Repetition is the key. Several times in my life I have lived in the country. No neighbors, just lots of land surrounding me. I enjoyed taking walks and visiting places that served a purpose such as a good view, a nice tree or the barn. I would find the easiest path and over time the path would become worn. It became easy to find my way. The repetition of my steps left a visible and comfortable route that I could follow without thinking too much about where I was going. However, if I did not follow that route for a period of time, the grass and weeds would begin to grow. If enough time passed without traveling that way, I would almost have to start over. I would know where I wanted to go, but would need to re-establish my pathway. I have an image of mowing the grass regularly to keep these pathways clear and open. Memory works just like that. We learn something like the muscle and fascial structures of the body and how they contribute to movement while we are in school. We learn different ways to treat these areas as well. Then we move into practice where we might not use the information in a regular way. We adopt a familiar style of work where we lose track of some of what we once knew. We forget because we are not using the information on a regular basis. Does this sound familiar to you? Does this maybe describe you in your practice? When I teach workshops, I often begin with looking at the system of movement focusing on the function of the various parts involved and their interaction. I often imagine I am wasting time by presenting this information since everyone already knows this. However when I ask for feedback about this, participants usually report they are thankful for the review. “I’d forgotten this from when I was in class” is often what is said. Again with all that comes at us in life, it is easy to lose what we once had as we move on to other things. So here is an opportunity to work the pathways. Short, focused, one-day classes offer hands-on review of the three regions of the body covered during massage school: Lower, Upper and Axial. Review and relearn this material, as well as gain ideas about interaction and treatment of these regions of the body. If you think this is something that would be useful to you, come join. Let’s sharpen the blade, tune the machine, and together we can mow the grass! The Lower and Upper classes are being offered in August. To register, contact Frank Merillat directly at (352) 371-0743 or by email at fmerillat@mac.com. You can see the details of these classes under “continuing education –> weekend workshops” on the FSM website.  Just click this link:  Mowing the Grass